Fresh analysis reveals that people who stop using popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users buying such medications need to be cognizant of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally experience a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the injections accounts for the heightened rebound.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS advise the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the medication describe a sudden return of appetite.
"I experienced a switch activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts stress that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
